Getting Research Help
Book a Research Appointment
Get lengthier and more specialized research help with our book an appointment service.
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Visit the Research Help Desk on the main floor of the Library for help.
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Workshops are scheduled throughout the term.
Online Guides and Videos
How-to guides and videos on writing, research and citation
Industry Classification Codes
Industry classification codes are numerical systems used to organize information about a particular industry. Industrial classification codes are used by government agencies, market-research firms and throughout various publications. Below are links to a few of these codes:
Industry Classification System - Canada
- NAICS Canada (2022 v1.0)
Industry Classification System - United States & Global
- North American Industry Classification System United States, NAICS United States
- International Standard Industrial Classification United Nations, ISIC (Passport GMID database uses the ISIC)
- Global Industrial Classification Standard, GICS (FP Infomart database includes options to use the GICS)
Company Directories
A collection of businesses directories.
- Directories of Canadian CompaniesA directory of Canadian businesses maintained by the Government of Canada, and features specialized directories.
- Canadian Trade IndexA Canadian business directory focusing on industrial and manufacturing products and services. Can be searched by headings (adhesives, castings, machinery, etc.).
- Scotts Business Directories Online (via Toronto Public Library)An online Canadian business directory that can be accessed using a Toronto Public Library account. Log into the library website and find Scotts Business Directories in the list of databases.
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Below are print periodicals of historic Canadian Business Directories.
- Canadian Key Business Directory byCall Number: HF3223 .C24A periodical published by Dun & Bradstreet of Canada that lists the largest businesses in Canada.
- Guide to Canadian Manufacturers byCall Number: HD9734.C25 G83A periodical published by Dun & Bradstreet which serves as a directory of Canadian manufacturing companies.
- National Services Directory byCall Number: HD9985.C22 D84A periodical which serves as a directory of Canadian service providers.
Demographics of Company Ownership
Please note that the information available is contingent on disclosure. For Canada, currently there is no source available that allows you to search for company lists by specific demographic criteria.
Also included below are self-reporting directories for specific demographic groups. These are maintained by external groups and updates may be sporadic, and they may not be comprehensive because they rely on self-reporting.
Outside of Canada, check the country's census data, statistics sources, or industry/economic ministries for data.